Northern Lights Expected to Be visible in 18 US States Tonight
Skywatchers across 18 American states could be treated to a spectacular display of the northern lights tonight,September 1st,due to a significant space weather event. The National Oceanic and Atmospheric Management (NOAA) aurora forecast map indicates the following states are positioned fully or partially within the aurora viewing zone: Alaska, Montana, North dakota, Minnesota, Wisconsin, Michigan, Maine, South Dakota, Vermont, New Hampshire, Idaho, Washington, Oregon, New York, Wyoming, Iowa, Nebraska, and Illinois.
The potential for this heightened aurora activity stems from one or more coronal mass ejections (CMEs) heading towards Earth.Space weather physicist Dr. Tamitha Skov noted on X (formerly Twitter) that “the larger one catches up with the smaller one just ahead of Earth,” potentially creating a “cannibal CME” that could trigger an initial disturbance before the main storm arrives. She anticipates impact by late September 1st, with possible G2+ geomagnetic storm conditions.
The UK Met Office also predicts a “significantly enhanced” auroral oval, increasing the chance of visibility as far south as East Anglia, the Midlands, and Wales, given clear skies.
To maximize viewing opportunities, experts recommend:
Seeking dark locations away from city lights.
Finding a north-facing view with a clear horizon.
Looking up between midnight and 2 a.m. local time, but beginning observations as soon as the sky darkens.
Remaining patient, as auroras often appear in waves and can start faint.
* Utilizing a space weather app for location-specific aurora forecasts.